§ 10. Mr. Chetwyndasked the Minister of Transport whether he will now make a statement about the future programme of research and development for nuclear-powered merchant shipping.
§ 19. Mr. Wallasked the Minister of Transport whether he will now make a statement about the award of a contract for the construction of a prototype nuclear propelled merchant vessel.
§ Mr. MarplesI hope to make a statement fairly soon on the application of nuclear power to merchant shipping.
§ Mr. ChetwyndCan the Minister say what is holding up this decision? Why is he dithering about this? Why should we be rapidly falling behind other nations in a field in which our inventiveness and skill should give us a great lead?
§ Mr. MarplesThe real point is that we must make the best use of our resources and be satisfied that what we do is right in the interests of the nation. What worries me more than anything else is the economics of this method of propulsion.
§ Mr. WallIn view of the importance of this subject, and the great interest which it causes, may I ask my right hon. Friend whether he will consider publishing a White Paper when he comes to a decision?
§ Mr. MarplesI should like to consider that. When any decision is arrived at, a complete explanation ought to be provided both for the House and the country.
§ Mr. ChetwyndCan the Minister be a little more specific about the timing? What does he mean by shortly? Does he mean in the next few weeks?
§ Mr. MarplesVery soon,